Cider tasting and pouring in Onís: a truly authentic experience
Every great cider begins long before it reaches the glass. It starts in the tree, in the choice of apple variety, in the way it's harvested, in the unhurried pace of the cider press, and in that rural heritage that can't be learned in an afternoon, although it can begin to be discovered—and enjoyed— thanks to people like Pepín , a true cider maker and press operator, one who has spent decades among apple trees, barrels, and glasses of cider.
His natural way of sharing his knowledge makes the experience truly unique. There are no forced scripts or stock phrases here, just the eloquence of someone who has dedicated his life to the Asturian countryside and cider culture.
Asturian apple orchards and apples
With Pepín as our guide, we'll visit the apple orchard , where cider making begins and takes shape. It's not just about seeing apple trees, but about understanding what's cultivated, how it's selected, and why the blend of apple varieties (some contributing sugar, others freshness, others bitterness and structure) largely determines the final result.
A good cider doesn't depend on a stroke of inspiration, but on a chain of successful steps. Starting with the choice of the fruit, its point of ripeness, and the moment—and the way—in which we harvest it.
The wound inside
Then comes the moment to enter the true heart of cider making: the cider press . This is where the apple is transformed, where tradition and labor come together to shape the cider. There are no shortcuts or tricks that allow you to rush the process without ruining everything. Cider is made slowly, like anything serious.
During the tour you will learn, step by step, how the cider press works. From washing and pressing to fermentation and racking.
"Cider needs to be allowed to live... and listened to ," Pepín tells us.
Authentic cider tasting in Asturias
Tasting cider is great. Understanding what you're drinking is another matter entirely.
The guided tasting is designed to train your eye, sharpen your sense of smell, and awaken your palate in a simple, enjoyable, and highly engaging way. Through this guided tasting, you will discover nuances, aromas, color, acidity, and mouthfeel that often go unnoticed but reveal a great deal about the cider before you.
To enjoy this tasting, all you need is curiosity . It's the perfect starting point to see cider in a new light, understand it better, and enjoy it even more in good company. Because drinking cider isn't just about consuming it, but about sharing a way of life that in Asturias has become a true cultural phenomenon.
The pouring masterclass: the funniest moment
Every experience has its highlight moment, and at Sidra Experience it comes with the masterclass in pouring cider.
First, you'll understand why it's poured from a height , what the aeration contributes, and why that very Asturian gesture isn't just a pose, but an essential part of the flavor. Then comes the best part: trying it yourself. One of the most fun moments of the experience. We're obliged to pick up the bottle, take a feel for it, and try our luck. There will be laughter, failed attempts, jokes, impromptu advice, and also the small satisfaction of seeing that after several tries, things are finally starting to turn out with a certain degree of decent quality.
You won't leave here with a diploma, but you will with something more practical: the necessary foundation to refine your technique and, over time, earn the position of cider pourer in your house or group of friends.
An original plan for couples and groups in Onís
This experience is a great option for those looking for something different to do in eastern Asturias. It's perfect as a date, with friends, for a small celebration, or as a private activity with a distinctly Asturian flavor.
Furthermore, it lasts approximately an hour and a half , a very convenient time to fit it into any holiday day without any problem.
Why book Sidra Experience?
1/ Because it is not a visit without purpose.
2/ Because it will change your perspective and understanding of cider.
3/ Because learning to pour in the right place completely changes the way you understand this tradition.
4/ It is one of those activities that fit perfectly into a rural getaway and that, without making a fuss, end up being one of the most remembered parts of the trip.
Text: © Ramón Molleda for asturias.com
